Addressing California’s Teacher Shortage
California is facing a teacher shortage, and passionate, well-prepared educators are needed now more than ever. Our unique dual credential program helps address this growing need by preparing future teachers with specializations to work with students from early childhood through high school.
Single or Dual Teaching Credentials
Candidates can choose to earn a preliminary single credential or dual credentials:
Who Are Preliminary Teaching Credentials for?
Our preliminary credential programs are designed for those...
seeking the quickest path to a credential.
who already hold a master's degree.
who need a streamlined option.
Program Learning Outcomes
Upon earning their teaching credential, students will be prepared to make a difference in California classrooms by:
Integrating technology and diverse perspectives to engage learners in critical thinking, creativity and collaborative problem-solving on real-world local and global issues
Applying learning, instruction and motivation theories to support learners' cognitive, linguistic, social, emotional, physical and moral development through inclusive and developmentally appropriate learning experiences
Integrating assessment and technology into planning and instruction to gather feedback that enhances student learning, classroom management and teaching methods
Conducting and applying research on teaching practices, student learning and education policies to explore new ideas that enhance teaching, learning and the profession
Exploring strategies for creating inclusive, welcoming environments that support diverse learners and students with varying needs, abilities and backgrounds through tailored instructional approaches
Reflecting critically on how personal perspectives and potential biases influence expectations and relationships with learners and their families
There are times when I'm in the middle of writing IEPs or I'm having a difficult student and I can't remember how to work with the student to de-escalate them, and I can look back at my tools from SOLES — my textbooks and my notes — to find the solutions.
The Value of Adding a Master's Degree
Only nine additional units are needed to earn your Master’s Degree with Preliminary Credential(s)
Many prospective teachers choose to obtain their master’s while getting their credentials because they understand the long-term value of a master’s degree. Students who earn a master’s at the beginning of their teaching careers have higher earning potential, open up pathways to specializations and leadership roles within education, and are better prepared to enter the classroom.
Upon completion of the state teaching credential requirements, students will be recommended to the California Commission of Teacher Credentialing for a Preliminary or Level I Credential which is valid for up to five years and allows them to begin teaching.
Careers in Education
Preliminary credential programs prepare students to pursue various teaching roles within the California education system. Some of the positions that graduates choose to pursue include:
Elementary school teachers are instrumental in educating young students in foundational subjects such as reading and writing, math and science while supporting their social and emotional development. Planning engaging lessons, measuring student progress and creating learning environments that encourage curiosity and a love of learning are also key aspects of the role.
Average Salary: $55,317
High school teachers educate students in specific subjects, helping them develop the knowledge and skills needed for graduation and future success. They also create lesson plans, assess student progress and provide guidance and support to foster both academic and personal growth.
Average Salary: $60,577
Special education teachers support students with diverse learning needs by creating individualized education plans (IEPs) tailored to their abilities and goals. To better ensure students achieve academic, social and developmental success, they also adapt teaching methods, provide targeted interventions and collaborate with families and specialists.
Average Salary: $64,820
Note: Salary estimates sourced from ziprecruiter.com in January 2025. Estimates are subject to change over time based on updates to available data.
Financing Your Education
All students have a right to an education, regardless of income or circumstance. Over 60% of our students rely on financial assistance to cover part of their educational expenses.
The tuition rate is for the 2025–26 academic year. Tuition and fees are subject to change.
33
Units
$933
Tuition per unit
$30,789
Estimated total tuition
Financial Aid
In addition to external funding resources, students at SOLES may be eligible for various forms of financial assistance, including scholarships, grants, fellowships, and discounts.
Our Alumni
After earning their preliminary teaching credential, students go on to fulfilling careers in education.
OUR ALUMNI WORK OR HAVE WORKED FOR:
Take the Next Step
Ready to Get Started?
Your future as a Changemaker starts here. Learn more about SOLES or start your application today.